Friday, 10 April 2015

Kashmir

Kashmir is the northwestern region of the Indian subcontinentHistorically the term Kashmir was used to refer to the valley lying between the Great Himalayas and the Pir Panjal range. Discover and Explore the Ultimate Paradise on Earth, Kashmir, the crowning glory of India. India's northernmost state and crown of India, Kashmir is a Paradise regained. Kashmir is so precious, no outsider is allowed to own land here.

Kashmir throughout the ages has remained another name for Paradise.

Cradled in the lap of majestic mountains of the Himalayas, Kashmir is the most beautiful place on earth.

On visiting the Valley of Kashmir, Jehangir, one of the Mughal emperors, is said to have exclaimed:

The Mughals aptly called Kashmir ‘Paradise on Earth’ where they journeyed across the hot plains of India, to the valley’s cool environs in summer

Summer:-

Summer extends from May until the end of August. Light woollens may be required to wear out of Srinagar.In higher altitudes night temperatures drop slightly. Srinagar at this time experiences day temperatures of between 25°C and 35°C. At this time, the whole valley is a mosaic of varying shades of green - rice fields, meadows, trees, etc.

and Srinagar with its lakes and waterways is a heaven after the scorching heat of the Indian plains.

The most magnificent district of Kashmir is Srinagar. It is a combination of business center, holiday resort and the summer capital of the state

Kashmir valley is also popular for various adventure sports that it offers. Skiing, golf, trekking, river rafting, paragliding, camping and a number of other sports draw large number of tourists to the Kashmir valley. The handicrafts of Kashmir are almost as popular as its scenic beauty. The popular handicrafts of the valley are Pashmina shawls, silk carpets, papier-mâché products, exquisite woodwork, copperware, silverware, and a number of other crafts. All said and done, the beauty of Kashmir is unparalleled and it is truly known as the "Paradise on Earth".

Ever Since Copenhagen Replica organized by Youth Parliament of J&K at Srinagar, there has been a tremendous and remarkable change in the awareness level of the people and their general attitude towards the social upliftment of youth and role of youth in environmental conservation. With this as the Backdrop, Youth Parliament of J&K proposes to host the first ever Kashmir NEXT at Gulmarg, Kashmir. The event will take place on 12th & 13th of May, 2012 and will also be ideal platform to discuss about KASHMIR

LAdakh

Ladakh’s earliest inhabitants were nomadic yak herders, but permanent settlements were established along the Indus by Buddhist pilgrims travelling from India to Mt Kailash in Tibet. Buddhism soon became the dominant religion, though the minority Brokpa tribe still follows Bonism: the religion that preceded Buddhism in Tibet.

By the 9th century, the Buddhist kings of Ladakh had established a kingdom extending all the way from Kashmir to Tibet, protected by forts and dotted with vast Buddhist gompas (monasteries). Different sects struggled for prominence, but the Gelukpa (Red Hat) order was introduced by the Tibetan pilgrim Tsongkhapa in the 14th century, and it soon became the major philosophy in the valley.

The Coldest Desert in the World

The peaks of Snow Mountains on bright mornings part the dense clouds and soar into the skies. Beneath the skies like a world submerged, lies a lost kingdom. Ladakh, the roof of the world opened to tourists only in the last decade. At an awesome altitude, this highland is the bridge between the earth and the sky!

Ladakh is a region in India totally isolated from the modern world. An authentic land, it is faithful to ancestral customs where life is characterized by intense spirituality. Even an Indian traveler will probably find no similarities in the land and people between the ones he leaves behind and those he encounters in Ladakh. Rich traditions of Mahayana Buddhism still flourish in the purest form in this region, which has often been referred to as Little Tibet.

Ladakh lies at an altitude from 9000 ft to 25170 feet. At these heights, you are on the roof of theworld! As the highest inhabited land in the world, it holds a fascination for many, while for somethere is an enchantment of seeing mountains which had been under the sea for millions of years. Ladakh is like a forgotten moment in time. It is common in Ladakh to come across villages carved out of veritable mountainside, stupas reaching the sky, monasteries virtually hanging from the cliand crags. Their interiors are filled with priceless antiques and art.

Ladakh is open for tourist throughout the year, while the best period for tour and trek is from June to October. Most of the trekking routes are closed after November due to heavy snowfall at high passes except the Liker to Kahltsey (Sham) trek. The best period for Chadar trek is from January to Mid-March.

In the Leh-Ladakh and Lahaul-Spiti region, where monsoon does not have much effect, one can trek from the middle of June to the beginning of October. First week of May to end June is the pre-monsoon season. Passes below 4300 mts. are generally open for trekking from early June while the passes above 4300 mts. are negotiable only after monsoon rains are over.

Shimla

Known as the Queen of Hill Stations, Shimla became the summer capital of the British Raj during the latter half of the 19th century when the soldiers of the British army, merchants and civil servants moved up here to get relief from the scorching heat of the plains.

One of the most popular tourist destinations of India, Shimla is also the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. This hill station derives its name from "Goddess Shyamla", an avatar of Goddess Kali.

Shimla still retains its colonial charm and ambience that is not found anywhere else in India. Shimla is one tourist destination that can be visited any time during the year. Summers are warm with cool and pleasant evenings while the winter temperatures can fall below zero and provide the perfect ambience for snuggling in front of a roaring fireplace.

The former summer capital of the British in India, and the present capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla has been blessed with all the natural bounties which one can think of. It has got a scenic location, it is surrounded by green hills with snow capped peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era creates an aura which is very different from other hill.

A remarkable event took place in the history of Shimla when the Kalka-Shimla railway line was constructed in the year 1906 that significantly added to its quick accessibility and it gained immense popularity. Apart from this, Shimla was declared as capital of the undivided state of Punjab in the year 1871 and remained so until Chandigarh (the present-day capital of Punjab) was given the status of the region’s capital. Himachal Pradesh got separated from undivided Punjab in the year 1971 with Shimla becoming its capital. You will come across several British structures in Shimla such as the Viceregal lodge, Auckland House, Gorton Castle, Peterhoff house, and Gaiety Theatre that are the reminders of the colonial times. Some of the most prominent things to watch in Shimla are the Himachal State Museum & Library, Viceregal Lodge, Botanical Gardens, Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, The Ridge, The Mall, Summer Hill, Glenn and Taradevi Temple. Everything in this quaint town has a unique appeal and never fails to impress even the most demanding tourists.

Manali

Manali is situated in the Kullu district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh at the co-ordinates of 32.16' North latitude and 77.10' East Longitude. Situated at a height of 8612 feet (2625 meters), the hills of Manali offer stunning landscape.

According to popular legend, Manali is the abode of Manu or the law maker of Mankind. However, the documented history marks the beginning of modern day Manali with the coming of the British colonizers. The enchanting beauty of Manali and the cool climate captured the heart of the British who stayed in Manali particularly in the summer months.

The popular town of Manali is cocooned in a complex and variable topography. The gorgeous beauty of the Himalayas needs no introduction. The rolling verdant valleys, the forested hill sides, the sparkling streams serve unending charm and have attracted tourists time and again to this beautiful land. The Sutlez River and the Beas River criss cross through the grassy meadows and the rocky terrain. Manali also offers access to the Kinnaur, Lahaul, Spiti regions of Himachal Pradesh and the Leh and Zanskar regions of Jammu and Kashmir.

A stunning hill station surrounded by massive snow clad mountains and thick pinewood forests, Manali has the twisty Beas River as its magnificent centerpiece. Manali in the state of Himachal Pradesh is popular for its breathtaking Himalayan beauty. Lying at an elevation of 6260 feet, Manali is the top spot in the Kullu Manali valley and is blessed with many attractions. To know more about Manali you can go through the Manali Travel Guide. This eye popping resort is sandwiched between the impressive peaks of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges. A scared land, which is the abode of various Gods and Goddesses, this striking hill resort has a full calender of numerous colorful events and festivals.

Popular as the queen of valleys, Manali is named after the law giver of ancient India, Manu. Manali literally means the abode of Manu and hence this place has huge importance from the perspective of the ethnic culture and tradition of India. Manali Travel Guide also speaks about adventure sports. With skyscraping mountains surrounded by deep snow fed streams and profound rocky ravines Manali becomes a different but perfect tourist destination for all. A trendy holiday destination, Manali offers exceptional chances in mountaineering, trekking and skiing.

Manali tourism is fueled by two main seasons. The summer Holiday season when many people and families travel to this place on Manali holiday packages and the second big push to Kullu Manali tourism comes from the wedding season with thousands of honeymoon couples heading to the region.

Manali also turns out to be an enchanting stopover for one who is driving up to the snowclad hues of Ladakh en route some of the highest mountain passes in India. Manali Travel Guide directs you through some of the ancient hamlets inherited by the Tibetans that comes on your way to Leh-Ladakh. In addition, the popular treks from Manali are - Chandrakhani - Malana trail, Beas Kund Trek and Bhrigu Lake Trek

Rishikesh

Rishikesh is a small town in the northern state of Uttarakhand in India. Scenically located where the Ganges River comes down from the Himalayas, Rishikesh catapulted to Western fame when the Beatles dropped by for a visit to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's ashram (now closed), and the town is still known as the World Capital of Yoga.

Rishikesh is also the Gateway to the Himalayas

The center of town where the train and bus stations can be found is of little interest to most travelers. Further north-east are 2 bridges spanning the Ganges, Ram Jhula [1] and Lakshman Jhula [2], at either end of these bridges are the main hubs of activity and interest.
Most accommodation and restaurants can be found near Lakshman Jhula, High Bank and Swarg Ashram.Rishikesh, also spelled Hrishikesh, Rushikesh or Hrushikesh.
Rishikesh catapulted to Western fame when the Beatles dropped by for a visit to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's Ashram. Rishikesh is associated with Lord Rama and Laxman.
The town of Rishikesh lies in the foothills of the Himalayas of the Garhwal region. It is the gateway to the upper Garhwal region and the starting point for the Char Dham pilgrimage (Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath) and an ideal destination not only for pilgrims but also for the people who are interested in adventure, medtation, yoga and other aspects of Hinduism.

Rishikesh as appering the Adventure Capital of India for the adventure seekers as Rishikesh is the suggested place for starting their trekking expeditions to the Himalayan Peaks and for the White River Rafting. Also, International Yoga week which attracts participation from across the world, is held here, every year, in February on the banks of the holy Ganga.
Rishikesh is a vegetarian city by law, as well as an alcohol-free city. Rishikesh has also banned use of plastics bags by shopkeepers and vendors.

The 'Kedar Khand' of Skanda Purana, also mentions the existence of Indrakund at this very point. The jute-rope bridge was replaced by iron-rope suspension bridge in 1889, and after it was washed away in the 1924 floods, it was replaced by the present stronger bridge. Another similar suspension bridge Ram Jhula was built in 1986 at nearby Shivanand Nagar.

Darjeeling

So fancying a trip to Darjeeling? You must be lured by the dazzling snow peaks of Kanchenjunga overlooking the hill town? And the beautiful tea gardens on the slopes of rolling hills, orchids, pines & rhododendrons, the cute Himalayan toy train negotiating its way through the mountains? And you want to combine all that with great sightseeing tours, food, shopping and other exciting activities. Right?

Spread in ribbons over a steep mountain ridge, surrounded by emerald-green tea plantations and towered over by the majestic Khangchendzonga (8598m), Darjeeling is the definitive Indian hill station. Dating back to the Raj era, it's arguably West Bengal’s premier attraction, and promises some interesting exploration for the curious traveller. When you aren’t gazing open-mouthed at Khangchendzonga, you can explore colonial-era architecture, visit Buddhist monasteries, and spot snow leopards and red pandas at the nearby zoo. On the steep and bustling streets winding through town, you can lose yourself amid an array of Himalayan faces from Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet. And finally, when energies start to flag, a good, steaming Darjeeling brew is never far away.

Most tourists visit Darjeeling in autumn (October and November) and spring (mid-March to mid-May) when skies are dry, panoramas are clear and temperatures are pleasant. Winters can be cold here, so bring an extra jumper if visiting from December to February. The rainy months (June to September) can be extremely wet and are best avoided.

Darjeeling sprawls over a west-facing slope in a confusing web of interconnecting roads and steep flights of steps. Expect an uphill hike to your hotel if arriving at the train station or jeep stand. The two main squares – Chowrasta, near the top of town, and Clubside junction – are linked by pedestrianised Nehru Rd (aka The Mall), which doubles as the main shopping street. Hill Cart Rd (aka Tenzing Norgay Rd) runs the length of the bustling lower bazaar and is Darjeeling’s major vehicle thoroughfare.

This is the land of the muscatel flavoured Darjeeling tea revered by connoisseurs across the globe. This is the land of the world heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway where the century old miniature steam engine still chugs uphill vying for space with the fast disappearing Land Rovers.

It is certainly that Darjeeling in the post modern era comprises of six T’s -Tea, Teak, Tourism, Toy Train, Tiger Hill and Trekkers’ paradise.

Sikkim

Sikkim is located in the northeastern part of the country. It is the least populous state in India ,and the second-smallest in area after Goa. The thumb-shaped state borders Nepal in the west, Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north and east, and Bhutan in the south-east. The Indian state of West Bengal borders Sikkim to its south. The official languages are Hindi , Bhutia , Nepali , Lepcha , Limbu and English . The language of almost all written transactions is English.

The language of almost all written transactions is English. The predominant religions are Hinduism and Vajrayana Buddhism . Gangtok is the capital and largest town.

Despite its tiny size, Sikkim is geographically diverse, owing to its location on the Himalaya. The climate ranges from subtropical to high alpine. Kangchenjunga, the world's third highest peak, is located in the northwestern part of the state on the boundary with Nepal and can be seen from most parts of the state.Sikkim is a popular tourist destination for its culture, scenic beauty and biodiversity.In accordance with the concept, vision and the exemplary initiative of our Honourable Chief Minister Shri Pawan Chamling, the Government is endeavoring to promote “Rural Village, Eco friendly and Religious Tourism.” The unparalleled beauty of the State and very friendly and hospitable people are our competitive and comparative advantage. The construction of the Pilgrimage-cum-Cultural Centre at Solophok aims at promoting Religious Tourism, coupled with Village and Eco tourism.

This unique Pilgrim Centre has a main temple of 108 feet height on which is based the 87 feet high statue of Lord Shiva on the sitting posture at the Solophok Hill. Apart from Shiva statue, this Pilgrim Centre also has replicas of the twelve Jyotirlingas, to offer one platform for Shiva devotees.

Lord Shiva incarnated as Kirateshwar in Indrakeel (Present Sikkim). Therefore, in this incarnation he is locally worshipped by the people of Sikkim as Lord Kirateshwar. A statue of 16 1/2 feet height of Lord Kirateshwar is also installed in the complex.

In order to attain Moksha, the Hindu belief is to perform pilgrimage to all the existing four Dhams. Thereby, replicas of these four Dhams, namely Badrinath, Jaganath and Dwarka dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Rameshwar, dedicated to Lord Shiva is also constructed.

Two major rivers of the state the Teesta and the Rangit meet at Melli where they uniform to end at Bay of Bengal. Sikkim is rich in floras and fauna. Over 4000 varieties of plant species found in this state. Sikkim is the home of Orchids; Nobile orchid is the state flower.

Here more than 600 different species are found and the two latest new orchid hybrids are named after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpee and Late Kalpana Chawla. Rhododendron is the state flower of the state where 35 different species can be seen in full bloom on seasons. Blood Pheasant is the state bird and Red Panda the state animal. Sikkim also houses more than 400 different varieties of butterfly and moths. Parks and sanctuaries in places like Yumthang in North Sikkim and Barsey in West Sikkim are specially made for the visitors for their sightseeing green pastures.

Ooty

Called the Queen of Hill Stations picturesque, green Udhagamandalam better known, as Ooty is the most popular hill station in the South.ooty Located in the Western ghats at a height of 2240m, Udhagamandalam is the headquarters of the Nilgiris district where the two ghats ranges meet. Nature has been generous with this region, which is by far the most beautiful in the state. Apart from coffee and tea plantations, trees like confiers, eucalptus, pine and wattle dot the hillside in Udhagamandalam and its encirons. Summer temperature is rarely higher than 25°c with a minimum of 10°c and winter is are distinctly cooler with a high of 21°c and a low 5°c. Curiously enough, this slice of paradise remained unknown to the great southern dynasties and it took the British to discover it in the early 1800s. They were, however, not the first inhabitants of this land as a tribe called Todas had been living there long before the British came, claiming that the Nilgiris had been their home since time immemorial. But the credit for modernising Udhagamandalam and making it accessible goes to the British who constructed the first railway line in the area and made it the summer capital of the Madras Presidency.

Ooty with smaller hill stations of Coonoor - 19 kms and Kothagiri 31 kms from Ooty are the other hill stations of this district. Nilgiri is India's first biosphere. It has been declared as one of the 14 'hotspots' of the world because of its unique bio-diversity. Nilgiri presents a truly breath taking kaleidoscope of visual treats and soul stirring experience.

When it comes to places to visit in Ooty, it's like a nature lover's dream come true. While there's the Upper Bhavani Lake and the very famous Botanical Gardens as the famous Ooty tourist places, you can also go in for an experiential trip. The almost ancient Tea Factory is one of those places to visit in Ooty that can let you experience a very different world. Here, you can see the tea production unit's inside out, getting an insight into the whole process of such manufacturing units.

Government Botanical Garden(2 Kms)

This garden was laid out earlier by Marquis of Tweedale, the then governor of Madras in 1847. This garden covers an area of 22 acres. A fossil tree trunk of 20 million years is preserved here. The flora of the garden consist of six section comprising varieties of tree species, grass carpet, variety of ferns, fashioned beds laid beds laid out in an Italian style, multi coloured flowering plants, house ferns and orchids and nurseries. This garden will create tourist's mind a memorable one. Annual flower show is held here in May every year. This garden is maintained by Tamil Nadu Horticulture Dept.

Mukkurthi Peak is about 40 Kms. form Ooty. The Mukkurthi National Park is located on the Southern corner of the Nilgiris Plateau.

The area contains a viable population of Nilgiri Thar (Hamitragus hilocrius). The Kollaribetta and Nilgiris Peak are other major peaks around. The area is chained by innumberable beautiful and perennial little streams,which fall into Bhavani Puzha. The Silent Vally in the Western Ghat is located on the Western side of these ranges. A fascinating feature of the Mukkurthi Sanctuary is its endemism and relationship with Himalayan Flora and fauna.

Mount Abu

The history of Mount Abu is as diverse as the city itself. It was once a part of the Chauhan kingdom of Rajasthan and served as a summer resort for the Rajput kings of the region. After that, it was leased by the British government from the then Maharaja of Sirohi for use as the headquarter of the resident to Rajputana (another name for Rajasthan).

Mount Abu is a popular hill station in the Aravalli Range in Sirohi district of Rajasthan state in western India near the border with Gujarat. The mountain forms a distinct rocky plateau 22 km long by 9 km wide.Mount Abu situated at a average height of 1,219 mtr's above sea level is the oasis in the deserted land of Rajasthan and posses the honor of being the only hill-station in Rajasthan as well as north-west India, The world famous tourist destination is known for its Delwara Jain temples and natural beauty world over, situated amidst lush green forested hills on the highest peak in the Aravali range is also the summer capital for the Indian state of Rajasthan, home to lakes, waterfalls and green forests, the hill retreat, has a very cool and soothing climate thanks to its rich flora covering the entire hillside that includes coniferous trees and flowering shrubs. Mount Abu with its word-class tourist facilities with hotels ranging from budget class to three star and heritage provides a great holiday escape and honeymoon attraction. Every year more then three million national and international tourists visit mount abu enjoying its scenic beauty, rich flora & fauna as well as the marble art of delwara jain temples.

Gurushikhar holds the honor of being not only the highest peak of Mount Abu but the whole of Aravali mountain range, Situated at a height of 1722 meters from the sea-level, Gurushikar provides a breathtaking panoramic view of Mount Abu town and green aravali range.If you are traveling through the beautiful Mount Abu region in Rajasthan, you should ensure that you pay a visit to Guru Shikhar for postcard picture quality views of the town of Mount Abu and the Aravali Range, Guru Shikhar is also home to many beautiful and historic temples.If you go to the peak just a little to the north-west of Guru Shikhar, you can visit the shrine dedicated to Ahilya, the mother of Dattatreya. Like those from the taller Guru Shikhar peak, the views are simply enchanting.

Just RELAX! and watch the beautiful sun setting in the Aravali Hills,

Sunset Point located in South West of Nakki Lake provides you a scenic view of the setting sun. Hundreds of people swarm this area in the evening amidst a carnival atmosphere. Food stalls, souvenir shops abounds the area. The scenic hills, tranquil surrounding, and the pleasant climate makes it a favorite spot of the tourists. The Honeymoon Point located close by is another attraction of Mount Abu. Sunset Point is a good place to pick up trinkets and knick knacks. Carved marble statues, sandalwood idols, wooden toys and the likes can be seen all over the spot. Food stalls are a regular here.

Munnar

Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1,600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue once in every twelve years, will bloom next in 2018. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2,695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.

One of the main attractions near Munnar is the Eravikulam National Park. This park is famous for its endangered inhabitant - the Nilgiri Tahr. Spread over an area of 97 sq. km., this park is also home to several species of rare butterflies, animals and birds. A great place for trekking, the park offers a magnificent view of the tea plantations and also the rolling hills caressed by blankets of mists. The park becomes a hot destination when the hill slopes here get covered in a carpet of blue, resulting from the flowering of Neelakurinji. It is a plant endemic to this part of the Western Ghats which blooms once in twelve years.

Echo Point is located at a distance of 13 km from Munnar town. It is a spot that is very popular among youngsters. Some of the popular activities in this destination among the panoramic views of the lush green hills and evergreen trees are trekking and nature walks. Munnar’s echo point lies on the banks of a beautiful river.

The important characteristic of the echo point is that the visitors can hear their voice echoing through the reservoir and coming back reverberated. It is a favorite picnic spot for many travelers much because of its velvety slopes and misty surroundings. The surrounding tea plantations and spice gardens invite trekkers to explore the wonders of nature.The specialty of this place is that the voices made resound back into the surroundings breaking the serene silence of hill stations. Also, it is a nice spot to embark on a nature’s trail along the paths cutting through the stretches of tea, coffee and spice plantations or to plunge into trekking.

With its green grasslands and various prospects for outdoor activities, the Echo Point serves as an adventure destination. Photographers find this place a true paradise as they capture the moments of vibrancy as well as serenity.

Being very near Munnar the place has the same climate of Munnar and it is better to avoid the visit during Monsoon.

Goa

Goa is a state located in the West India region of the Konkan, it is bounded by the state of Maharashtra to the north, and by Karnataka to the east and south, while the Arabian Sea forms its western coast.

The Coolest Place in India

'Now our road takes us to the magnificent kingdom of Goa.The people of this kingdom are strong, prudent and very hardworking. The kingdom of Goa is the most important in India.It is civilized, having famous orchards and water. It is the coolest place in India and it is the most plentiful in foodstuffs.'

One of Goa's important institutions, Goa's famous and magnificent

churches are largely a legacy of Portuguese colonization

Church building was one of the main occupations of the early Portuguese and in fact one of Vasco da Gama's main missions for finding the sea route to India was to "seek Christians and spices".

Christianity was forced upon with religious fervor by the Portuguese during the period of the "Inquisition" with wide scale destruction of temples and this continued till the official end of the "Inquisition" in Goa in 1812. Most of Goa's churches were built on the very site of former temples. The confiscated lands of the temples were handed over to the church and the communidades. In fact, the first Hindu temple allowed to be constructed by the Portuguese in 300 years was in 1818 at Panaji.

With a significant population of Goans being Christians for many generations today, the Church is an important factor in Goa's social, cultural and religious life. For example, the contribution of the Church to education in Goa is immense. Today the churches are all part of the Archdiocese of Goa and function with its help, many are also protected sites.

The architecture of Goa's churches has undergone notable changes with the passage of time and the fashion of the era that they were built in. The church architecture can be broadly broken down to the following periods

Goa’s 103 km coastline is blessed with the most enchanting beaches

Forget the beaches of Australia, Thailand or Bali and head to some of the most amazing beaches of Goa. The former Portuguese colony boasts of some incredibly scenic beaches that offer everything from parties to adventure, solitude to sunbathing.

We list five of the best beaches of Goa.Mandrem Beach,Agonda Beach,Baga Beach,Candolim Beach,